Introduction
CR1 Visa, also known as the Spousal Immigrant Visa, is a type of visa issued to the foreign spouse of a US citizen as a means for them to enter into the United States and live there permanently. In this article, we will discuss the process of getting a CR1 visa and the different steps involved in the entire process.
Eligibility Criteria For CR1 Visa
The eligibility criteria for the CR1 visa are set by the US government. To be eligible for a CR1 visa, the following criteria must be met:
The applicant must be married to a US citizen.
The marriage must be legally valid according to US law at the time it was performed.
Both the applicant and the US citizen spouse must be free to marry and intend to be together in the US as hu *** and and wife.
Both the applicant and the US citizen spouse must also pass a medical examination and be deemed otherwise admissible to the US.
Documentary Requirements for CR1 Visa Application
Getting a CR1 visa requires the submission of a variety of documents. These include:
A valid passport for the applicant.
A copy of the marriage certificate, evidencing a legal and valid marriage, between the applicant and the US citizen spouse.
The US citizen spouse must provide an Affidavit of Support to demonstrate that the applicant will not become a public charge once in the US. This typically requires the provision of tax returns for the past three years and employment evidence.
The applicant must also provide various other documents, such as police certificates, evidence of education or work experience, and birth certificates.
Filing the Petition for CR1 Visa
Before the CR1 visa process can begin, the US citizen spouse must file a visa petition known as the I-130. This form is filed with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS will then process the petition, which can take several months.
Processing Time
The overall processing time for a CR1 visa can vary depending on several factors, such as the time it takes the USCIS to process the I-130 petition, the time it takes for the applicant to complete the required medical examination and the time it takes for the US Embassy or Consulate to process the visa application. Typically, the entire process takes around 9 to 12 months from the time of application filing to the granting of the visa.
Interview and Approval
Once the USCIS approves the I-130 petition and the visa application is processed by the US Embassy or Consulate, the applicant will be called in for an interview. The interview is to establish the eligibility and admissibility of the applicant. Typically, the interview will last about 30 minutes. After the interview, the applicant will either receive approval and be granted a visa, or denial.
Conclusion
The CR1 visa process can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to ensure that all requirements are met and all documents are submitted in a timely fashion. However, once the visa is granted, the applicant can live and work in the US and eventually apply for permanent residency. The CR1 visa can be a great way for a foreign spouse to reunite with their US citizen partner and start a new life together in the United States.
